Best
Value Colleges in Hawaii in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Hawaii combines core business training with insight into the state's tourism and international markets. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Programs may offer internships with local companies and nonprofits. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as human resources specialist, marketing coordinator, financial analyst, operations manager, or business owner. Popular Hawaii options include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, and Brigham Young University-Hawaii.

Psychology

Studying a psychology program in Hawaii combines classroom learning with insights into the islands' diverse communities. Courses typically include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and cognition. Graduates may pursue roles in human services, case management, community outreach, behavioral health support, or research assistance; licensed clinical practice usually requires graduate study and licensure. Popular options include the University of Hawaii at Manoa and Hilo, Hawaii Pacific University, and Chaminade University.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Hawaii combines technical training with island life and opportunities in tourism, government, defense, and technology. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Students build skills through projects, internships, and research. Popular choices include the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the University of Hawaii at Hilo, and Hawaii Pacific University. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, or cybersecurity analysts.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Hawaii combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and practicum or internships. Programs prepare students to support individuals, families, and communities across settings. Graduates pursue roles as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or case managers, with licensure requirements varying by role. Options include University of Hawaii at Manoa, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Chaminade University of Honolulu, and Hawaii Pacific University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Hawaii combines classroom learning, simulation, and clinical placements in island communities. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child care, mental health, and community health. Programs are available at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii Pacific University, and Kapiolani Community College. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, public health agencies, schools, or home-health services, supporting patients across varied settings.

Best Colleges in Hawaii Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 20,304.0, compared with 33,472.8 at schools in the top 10% of the ranking.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students across the schools, compared with 77.83% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 77.83%. Schools receive an average of 6,159.83 applicants, while top 10% schools receive an average of 15,464.0.
• The median number of male applicants is 621.5, compared with 1,483.5 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,141.4 on the SAT and 22.2 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,075.38, including averages of 296.17 enrolled men and 491.67 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 47.25%, compared with 57.7% for top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 45.0% for men and 50.5% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, eight offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• Eight schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid together, since the overall median cost is lower than the top 10% figure while the reported average share of students receiving aid is higher overall. Also consider acceptance rates, applicant numbers, graduation rates, available degree levels, and the balance of enrolled students when deciding which school best fits your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Hawaii cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Hawaii is $20,810.75, a useful yearly budgeting benchmark for a local student pursuing a degree. It is not a full degree's price: the total you pay depends on how many years you attend, your program, and whether you live at home or on campus. At the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in Honolulu or UH Hilo on the Big Island, compare each program's current tuition and fees with your own housing and transportation needs. These familiar public campuses can make staying close to home feel both exciting and practical.

For planning, the reported figures are:

• Average tuition and fees: $15,043.50.
• Average room and board: $15,936.12.
• Average books and supplies: $1,367.

Because expense categories can differ between estimates, treat them as comparison points rather than adding them to the total. Check housing, meal plans, and aid options before deciding what fits your budget.

How long does it take to finish college in Hawaii?

Most students in Hawaii should plan on about four years for a bachelor's degree and roughly two years for an associate degree, assuming full-time study and steady progress. At UH Mānoa, Hawaiʻi Pacific University, or a UH community college, timelines vary by major, course availability, and personal commitments. The average reported graduation rate is 47.25% - about 47 in 100. Among the top 10% of schools, the average is 57.7%; averages are 44.5% for men and 49.0% for women. Regular advising helps you stay focused and avoid unnecessary courses.

You may be able to graduate sooner by:

• Bringing in eligible AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits after confirming how your college accepts them.
• Taking summer courses or a heavier course load if classes fit your degree plan and budget.
• Transferring community-college credits to a four-year university with advance adviser approval.

Salary

College graduates in Hawaii have a median alumni salary of $44,747. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $55,041. Your own earnings can vary by field, experience, and employer, but these figures offer a helpful starting point as you plan your next step.

Hawaii students can explore institutions such as the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, and Hawaiʻi Pacific University. Comparing programs, costs, and career opportunities can help you find a degree path that fits your goals - and make the prospect of building a career close to home feel more achievable.

People also ask

What college in Hawaii has the lowest tuition?

For Hawaii residents, the lowest-tuition options are generally the University of Hawaii community colleges, including Hawaii Community College, Honolulu Community College, Kapiʻolani Community College, Kauaʻi Community College, and University of Hawaii Maui College. Their resident tuition rates are typically similar, so there may not be one clear cheapest campus. Fees and program costs can affect the total.

What are Tier 1 schools in Hawaii?

"Tier 1" does not have one universal definition. If you mean the Carnegie classification for top research activity, the University of Hawaii at Mānoa is Hawaii's R1 university. It offers a broad range of programs and research opportunities, making it a strong option for students who want a large public university experience close to home.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Hawaii Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Honolulu on Oʻahu, the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is the state's flagship campus and offers the broadest university setting among these options. It enrolls 20,404 students, with a 64% graduation rate and an 87% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $33,336, while median alumni salary is $44,539. For a Hawaiʻi resident seeking a large campus experience, Mānoa combines island living with extensive academic choices; compare the full cost with your expected aid and program needs.

Brigham Young University-Hawaii, in Laie on Oʻahu's North Shore, is a small private university with a distinctive faith-centered community and an international outlook. Its 2,907 enrolled students experience a smaller setting than at Mānoa. The school reports a 53% graduation rate and 47% acceptance rate; listed total study cost is $6,630, and median alumni salary is $40,685. For Hawaiʻi-based applicants, consider campus culture, travel to Laie, and how the available degree programs match your goals alongside the low listed cost.

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is a public university on Hawaiʻi Island, offering a smaller-campus alternative to Honolulu. It enrolls 2,649 students, has a 48% graduation rate, and accepts 61% of applicants. Its listed total study cost is $20,304, and median alumni salary is $41,638. Students already living in the islands may value studying on the Big Island while staying within the University of Hawaiʻi system. Review program offerings, housing, and travel needs when estimating your personal expenses before enrolling.

Located in Kapolei on Oʻahu, the University of Hawaiʻi-West Oʻahu provides a regional public-university option away from central Honolulu. It enrolls 2,897 students, with a 50% graduation rate and a 95% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $20,304, and median alumni salary is $44,747. For local students, its West Oʻahu location may make commuting practical, depending on where you live. Compare transportation, degree availability, and financial aid to judge the overall fit and actual cost for your household.

University of Hawaiʻi Maui College, based in Kahului, serves students seeking a local college experience on Maui. As a community college, it offers a different pathway from the four-year universities, including opportunities to begin studies close to home. Enrollment is 2,792, and the graduation rate is 28%; acceptance-rate data is unavailable. Listed total study cost is $8,280, and median alumni salary is $45,903. Hawaiʻi residents should check specific credentials, transfer options, and program schedules when planning a degree on Maui.